U22 China confident to defeat Vietnam at Panda Cup 2025
Hu Heta affirmed the championship goal with U22 China, emphasizing adherence to tactics and winning each match. U22 Vietnam does not have the strongest force yet, match at 6:35 p.m. on November 12.
China U22 entered the opening match of the 2025 Panda Cup against Vietnam U22 at 6:35 p.m. on November 12 with a proactive mindset. Defender Hu Heta affirmed the championship goal, while emphasizing that the team will stick to the strategy and aim for victory in each match.
Hu Heta and the message before the ball rolls
Sharing before the match, Hu Heta said: "I have known about the Panda Cup for a long time when I was in Chengdu. The tournament had a hiatus before, but now having the opportunity to compete at home is really something to look forward to. The Panda Cup is a good opportunity for our team to practice and gain experience.
All three opponents this time are of high level, not as easy as everyone thinks. We will follow the coach's tactics, constantly improve ourselves and aim for victory in each match."
This season's stats at Chengdu Rongcheng
According to statistics from 163, Hu Heta has played 20 matches for Chengdu Rongcheng in the Chinese Super League this season, of which 19 were starts, scoring 1 goal and having 3 assists. On average, he plays 81.8 minutes per match, making 2.1 interceptions, 0.9 interceptions and 1.1 clearances.
| Index | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of matches | 20 |
| Main stone | 19 |
| Goal | 1 |
| Construction | 3 |
| Minutes played/match | 81.8 |
| Steal the ball/match | 2.1 |
| Blocked ball/match | 0.9 |
| Relief/battle | 1.1 |
The stats show Hu Heta’s consistent defensive involvement and explain why he is seen as a mainstay. With China U22 playing at home, the defender’s ball-winning, interception and clearance stats are a clear support for the disciplined approach he emphasizes.
The problem of U22 Vietnam's force
Vietnam U22 has arrived in China and started training. However, Acting Head Coach Dinh Hong Vinh will not have the strongest squad as some players have only gathered after round 11 of the V-League. The coach expressed caution and considered the 2025 Panda Cup an important opportunity to gain experience before heading towards the next two major campaigns: the 33rd SEA Games and the 2026 AFC U23 Championship.
Panda Cup 2025 opening time and context
The match between U22 China and U22 Vietnam will take place at 6:35 p.m. on November 12. With home field advantage and confidence from the defensive pillar, the home team aims to have a smooth start. On the opposite side, U22 Vietnam prioritizes testing the squad and practicing, thereby accumulating experience for the upcoming key tournaments.
Highlights before the match: U22 China declares to fight each match to win; Hu Heta brings certainty from stable defensive parameters; U22 Vietnam approaches cautiously while not having the strongest force.
